Tree Removal or Relocation

A permit is required if you are planning to remove or relocate a tree on your commercial or residential property. To obtain a permit, you must submit a completed Application for Tree Removal or Relocation to the City's Planning and Economic Development Division. It is important to remember, that the submission of the application does not authorize the removal of trees. Further, work may not be performed until the application is approved and a permit is issued.

Should you want to discuss your application prior to submittal, please set up a meeting with the City Arborist by emailing landscape@ppines.com or calling 954-392-2100. Please keep in mind the Arborist is in the field performing inspections throughout the day and may not be available without appointment.

Hand delivered applications can be received Monday through Thursday between the hours on 7am and 530pm.

Application Requirements

1. Applications must be signed and fully completed.
2. Must include a letter of approved action from the homeowners association when applicable.
3. Must include a sketch or location map as well as the number of trees slated from removal/relocation.
4. Must include at least one color photo of each tree being applied for.
5. A check or money order with appropriate fees (non refundable):
• Detached Single Family - $10.00
• Multi-Family or Commercial - $50.00 for up to 10 trees, plus $10.00 for each additional tree.
• Fees may be submitted by check or money order via the mail. In person; fees may be submitted by cash, check, money order or via *Credit Card (*additional Fees may apply).
6. A copy of the notice of code violation if applicable.
7. No work may be performed until the application is approved.
8. All applicants must contact Sunshine-811 by dialing 8-1-1 to have the property marked from underground utilities.

Inspection Guidelines

All applications will have an initial inspection by staff within 10 City businesses days from the date the application was received.

Application will receive a determination of approval or denial via US Mail after the inspection occurs.

If a tree is removed, a replacement must be installed within 30 calendar days.

A second inspection will occur a minimum of 90 calendar days after the issuance of the permit to ensure compliance with the terms of the permit.

The permit expires 90 calendar days after the issue date. Permit extensions may be requested in writing.

To check the status of an application after 10 City business days, email landscape@ppines.com or call 954-392-2100.

Removal Justification

The following conditions must be proven to the City to issue a tree removal or relocation permit (§ 153.31).

The tree unreasonably restricts the permitted use of the property.

A proposed development cannot be located on the site without tree removal.

The property owner has made every reasonable effort to incorporate existing trees in the development project and to minimize the number of trees removed.

The tree is significantly damaging existing structures and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices or reasonable modifications to the property.

The tree interferes with utility services and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices.

The tree creates an on-going safety problem for the existing development and cannot be mitigated through proper arboricultural practices.

The tree is obstructing safe sight lines.

The tree is growing too close in proximity to another more valuable tree(s) to permit normal growth and development of the affected tree(s).

The tree is of poor quality and condition but is not considered a hazardous tree.

It is in the public interest and welfare that the tree be removed for a reason other than set forth herein.